When it comes to getting the best shots of scenery, nothing beats getting up early. The advantages are that the sun will be low in the sky giving a warmth and colour to the image AND there will be fewer people around, allowing you to shoot in peace and take uncluttered shots.

Change your position

Before taking a picture, we often stand still, in an upright position. That, of course, doesn’t have to be the only way. Why not move around a bit to frame your subject from different angles? If you want them to appear smaller, take a shot from an elevated position. Photographing from different angles gives you the option to select the perfect shot later on.

Bright sunlight

Getting good photos in bright sunshine can be problematic but there are some quick fixes that you can try. Traditional advice suggests always shooting with your back to the sun, but this usually results in an overly bright and unflattering portrait of a squinting holiday companion. Shooting directly into the sun instead can be very effective – just make sure that the subject is blocking the sun from your view and they’ll end up with a cool ‘halo’ effect. Or simply go for the silhouette effect if there’s too much shadow.

Sunsets

Sunsets that look incredible in real life often end up looking far less impressive in photo form, but it is possible to get a good shot. If you use silhouettes as focal points this can help capture a sensational sunset. As with all photos, sunsets need a point of interest and one of the best ways to add one to a picture is to try to incorporate some sort of silhouette into the shot. This could be something large like a mountain range, something that is part of the environment like a palm tree or a pier or even a person.

Family pictures

Try giving children something to do – let them build a sandcastle, or pick up some sticks and write their names in the sand. This provides lots of opportunities for you to zoom in and get some really natural shots, while they play. Remember to shoot them with the sun behind them so they don’t squint when they look up at you.

Use a lens hood!

There can be too much of a good thing when it comes to haze. Using a lens hood can help you cut down on some of the intense haze you might experience shooting at the beach.

Got any photo tips, or simply want to show off your photography skills? Why not share with us how you are #makingmemories over on our Red Letter Day’s social channels and we will re-post our favourites!